Stupidest question ever...please help!

Ok so about a month ago i bought a 1982 xj550 maxim. my oil light came on today...so i figure i need to add...or change the oil...the only problem is i dont know what kind of oil to put in it...went to the local auto parts store and they were no help...please help....what kind of oil do i need to put in my bike?

 

I believe Yamaha recommends Yamalube 20W40. Most use Castrol 20W50. I personally use 20W50 CARQUEST house brand (I work there).

 

Oh, I imagine I've heard more stupid questions before. I don't think this is one of them, although we tend to get a lot of people asking "what's the best oil".

Before I answer your question, I'd suggest getting some technical documentation. If you can get ahold of a printed service manual, great. The XJCD will also be a highly recommended addition to your library; it will have parts listings and service data. Search the forums for how to order it.

Now then, according to said XJCD, you're wanting 20/40 oil. Since none of the auto parts stores I know of carry that flavor, opting to stock 20/50 instead, that is generally what gets called for here. If you can find the Yamaha recommended stuff at the dealer, and feel like dropping the extra money, that's your call.

One other thing to remember is this: when getting oil at the auto parts store, make sure and avoid the stuff that says "energy conserving" on the label. If you get the über expensive stuff at the dealer or cycle parts store, then make sure it's got a JASO MA rating -- certified for wet clutches. This is why we want to avoid the "energy conserving" oils... they can cause the clutch plates to slip.

 

Oh do share!


P.S. this isn't directed at you Spams! I'm just messing with the schmuckster......

 

I've had no luck finding Yamalube in 20/40 anymore at most of the plastic rocket stores. I do have a reliable source of Spectro 20/40 so I use that in the Yamaha(s) and Castrol 20W50 (from the auto parts store) in my Norton. Good quality conventional 20W50 (Castrol is available almost anywhere) will work just fine. The Schmuckster is right about the "energy conserving" glop but most 20W50's aren't going to be that anyway.

 

i was told they don't make 20/40 anymore.

 

My dealer said 20/40 Ymamlube was discontinued.
I'm runnung 20/50 castrol in the hot weather.

 

thanks for everyones advice! ill head up to the good ol auto parts store and grab me some 20w50.....

 

As often as I change my oil I have started using the SuperTech 2000 or whatever the WalMart stuff is. Make sure it doesn't say "Energy Conserving" in the lower half of the outer circle on the back (where the API ratings are in a little "donut" circle) or that it has "friction reducing additives". Like someone above said, it will make your clutch slip.

I buy this stuff in the five quart jug for like $8 and I use it in my high performance motocross bikes, too. And my lawn mowers and my snowblower and my tractor.......

 

Spams,
If you recently bought the bike I would suggest that instead of just adding oil to the unknown variety of oil already in there, that you completely change the oil. That way you know that what is in there is whats supposed to be in there. Also, the PO may have told you ha just changed the oil but I've found that unless you saw it done, don't bank on it.
The Buff